redeeming
adj.adj. describing a good quality that makes up for other bad qualities in a person or thing. You use this when someone has many faults but one good point that saves them.
adj. serving to offset or compensate for faults, defects, or negative characteristics. Often used in the phrase 'redeeming feature' or 'redeeming quality' to identify a singular merit in an otherwise flawed subject.
His sense of humor is his only redeeming quality.
The movie was quite boring, but the beautiful scenery was its one redeeming feature.
While the protagonist is initially presented as selfish and cruel, his sudden act of bravery in the final act provides a redeeming moment that complicates the audience's moral judgment.
Typically used attributively before a noun like 'feature', 'quality', or 'factor'.
Last updated May 11, 2026